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“Groups of young people have caused concerns amongst members of the public and incidents reported to us include young people throwing food at windows, shouting and swearing, riding bikes in the road towards traffic, and vandalism.

“The order will only be used selectively against those identified as likely to become involved in or have been involved in anti-social behaviour and criminality.”

The play area cost £90,000

The dispersal order gives officers the powers to order anyone aged 10 or over to leave the area ‘by the most direct route’ if they are suspected to have caused a nuisance or are likely to do so.

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Failing to comply is a criminal offence and police can use ‘reasonable force’ to remove anyone under the age of 16 to a ‘place of safety’ or take them to their home address.

The order will last until 5pm on Friday and those caught flouting the ban will face arrest and prosecution.

Pictured is Kenn Griffiths by some of the damage caused at Meigh Road Playing fields, Werrington

Community leaders today welcomed the crackdown.

Councillor Kenn Griffiths, chairman of Werrington Parish Council and ASB officer, said: “This close liaison with the police is part of the council’s commitment to curbing anti-social behaviour and to reassure the residents of the parish that their safety and well-being is of paramount importance.